5 tips for traveling on a budget with kids

I have been very lucky to have traveled a lot throughout my life. Luckily my girls and I have been fortunate enough to have found ways to travel despite limited funds. Before getting remarried 2 years ago, I found ways to be creative to pay for trips to Europe, Hawaii, California, and Mexico for my girls to have a similar experience to me and build a lifelong love of travel.

Below are some of my tips to travel with kids on a limited budget.

1.Use Google flights to find the cheapest flights. Be flexible for times, alternative cities and stopovers for best fares. Sometimes choose your location based on cheap flights.

2.Even if you are going to a country where you don’t speak the language, include visits to non-touristy areas. Find small family owned B &Bs. They are always less expensive than a full service hotel and you have the opportunity to experience the culture and kids often making friends with the locals.

3.The two major car rental companies are Europcar and Sixt. These are great choices for short term rentals. However, if you are planning a longer trip, I highly recommend Auto Europe. This company offers longer term leases and gives you a brand new car. You save money because short-term leases aren't subject to VAT (value-added tax), which typically ranges from 16 to 21 percent for car rentals.

4.Book accommodations that have cooking facilities. This saves a ton of money. It’s always fun to walk to the local bakery to get pastries for breakfast.

5.Instead of spending money on costly tourist attractions, take the kids out in nature. Go hiking or just walking through the town and experience the culture. This is free and provides an opportunity for valuable learning experiences.